The Jordan Harbinger Show 801: Circumcision | Skeptical Sunday
Feb 26, 2023
David C. Smalley, a comedian and fact-checker, joins to tackle the age-old practice of circumcision. They explore its historical roots dating back to ancient Egypt and the health debates surrounding the procedure. Beyond cultural and religious perspectives, the conversation humorously navigates the ethical dilemma of performing surgery on newborns without consent. The hosts also draw comparisons to female genital mutilation, highlighting the dire need for awareness and advocacy. It's a thoughtful yet entertaining discourse on a topic that provokes both laughter and serious contemplation.
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Circumcision Rates
- Male circumcision rates in the US have declined from 90% in the 60s and 70s to around 80% today.
- Global rates vary significantly, with some countries nearing 100% and others below 1%.
History of Circumcision
- Male circumcision, the oldest known surgical procedure, dates back to ancient Egyptians in the 23rd century BCE.
- Abraham is the first recorded person to be circumcised, linking the practice to Judaism and Islam.
Religious Views on Circumcision
- Circumcision isn't directly commanded in the Torah but is required by the Talmud.
- Apostle Paul seemed to downplay circumcision's importance in the New Testament.